Applied Science in Forensic Investigation
Applied Science in Forensic Investigation
BTEC Level 3 National Diploma in Applied Science in Forensics and Criminal Investigation/ WJEC A level Psychology
Over the last 10 years, employment in the forensic science sector has grown at an unprecedented rate. Are you ready to crack future cases, applying newly acquired knowledge and skills to the field of Forensics?
Is this course right for me?
This Applied Science pathway offers a bespoke balance of exposure to the traditional elements of Physics, Biology and Chemistry, as well as units underpinned in Sociology, Law and Anthropology.
This unique blend allows learners to understand theory, as well as apply practical skills to the fast-paced field of Forensic Investigation.
Alongside, an added AS/A2 in Psychology allows learners to apply psychological knowledge and research to their skillset.
What are the entry requirements?
- Five GCSEs at grade C or above (may include one relevant equivalent) to include English Language/First Language Welsh and Mathematics/Numeracy and Double Award Science
- Each application is considered on individual merit
- Entry is subject to attending a course information session or informal interview
Current student - what are the entry requirements?
- Successful completion of relevant Level 2 programme with a merit grade or above in addition to a successful decision from progression board meeting
- GCSE English Language/First Language Welsh at grade C or above
- GCSE Mathematics/Numeracy at grade C or above
- GCSE Science at Grade C or above
What will I learn?
The requirements of the qualification will mean that you develop the transferable and higher order skills which are valued by higher education providers and employers. For example, the study of applied science particularly encourages development of skills such as evaluation, analysis and synthesis. Balanced with this, are theory-based units in criminology, sociology and law, allowing social theory and concepts to be applied to the scientific practicals.
Units studied to include:
• Principles and applications of science 1
• Practical scientific procedures and techniques
• Science investigation skills
• Forensic Investigation Procedures in Practice
• Applications of Criminology
• Criminal Investigation Procedures in Practice
• Forensic Genetics
• Forensic Anthropology and Archaeology
Learners will also complete an A Level in Psychology, further developing their application of skills and knowledge to this increasingly popular field of employment. In addition, the study of the Advanced Skills Baccalaureate Wales will further develop research and analytical skills, shaping learners with relevant Higher Education skills.
Will I need to study additional English & Maths skills?
You may need to study an additional skills course depending on:
- the course you are taking at College
- what grades you gained in your GCSE Maths and/or English Language
Below to find out what skills course you may be taking at College.
Workbased, progression pathway programmes within the Built Environment Faculty – you will study Essential Skills Wales (ESW) in Application of Number and Communications.
Jobs Growth Wales (JGW+) programme – will be timetabled into literacy and numeracy sessions. To discuss the opportunity of attending a GCSE resit programme, in addition to their JGW+ timetable, please contact skills@pembrokeshire.ac.uk
Life Skills Academy programmes – you will have opportunities to upskill in English and Maths through Wales Essential Skills Toolkit (WEST) / Century or attending Essential Skills classes.
All other courses and those who have progressed through the internal progression route:
Upskilling Destination Programme – an hour and half session a week developing essential research skills, critical thinking, and academic writing techniques, supporting literacy, numeracy, digital literacy and employability skills
A one year GCSE Resit Programme in GCSE Mathematics Intermediate Tier (Welsh or English medium) / GCSE English Language
A one or two year pre-GCSE upskilling course in required subject/s – The priority of this programme (Foundation Maths for Mathematics pathway) is to build fundamental skill and knowledge, to prepare learners for progression onto the one-year, intermediate tier resit programme.
A one year pre-GCSE upskilling course in mathematics – The priority of this programme is to build fundamental skill and knowledge, to prepare learners for progression to the Foundation Maths programme.
Can I do this course in Welsh?
How will I be assessed?
- Continuous assessment during the course
- Practical assessment during the course
- Written examination
What can I do next?
Having gained a broad understanding of forensic science, there is a range of career pathways including Forensic Scientist, Crime Scene Investigator and Scene of Crime Officer.
Do I need to bring/buy any equipment?
- Stationery - you will be told about any specific items before you start the course
- Textbooks - you will be told about any specific items before you start the course, most textbooks are available to loan from the college library or online libraries
- You may be eligible for funding. Find out more on our student finance page
Any costs above are approximate and may change.
Are there any additional costs?
- No tuition fee
- You may be eligible for funding. Find out more on our student finance page
Any costs above are approximate and may change.
Additional information
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Sports Academy: While on this course you may be able to join our Sports Academy, if you have a talent for sport, find out what we offer on our Sports Academy page.
